New Orleans: St. Joseph and Felicity Plantation Guided Tour

If you’re visiting New Orleans and craving a deeper understanding of Louisiana’s plantation era, this tour of St. Joseph and Felicity Plantations offers a compelling journey into the state’s complex history. You’ll get to walk through historic homes, see original structures, and learn about the lives of those who lived and worked here—both the wealthy families and the enslaved people who built the plantations. It’s an experience that balances storytelling, architecture, and the ongoing legacy of these sites.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its focus on authentic, still-operating plantations—not just museums but working farms with modern-day ties. Plus, the chance to stand inside filming locations of movies like 12 Years a Slave adds an extra layer of cultural relevance. On the flip side, it’s a three-hour walk, which might be a bit much for those with limited mobility or tight schedules. It’s best suited for history buffs, architecture lovers, and film fans alike.

Two things we especially like about this experience are the original Creole architecture and furnishings at St. Joseph—which make history tangible—and the ongoing operation of the sugar farm at Felicity, providing a real-world connection to the past. One consideration is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking through historic sites and outbuildings, including former slave cabins, so comfortable shoes are a must. If you’re eager to see authentic plantation life and appreciate stories beyond the typical tourist fare, this tour suits those seeking substance and authenticity.

Key Points

• Authentic plantations: Still part of active sugar farms, offering a real glimpse into Louisiana plantation life.
• Rich architecture: Features Creole and Greek Revival styles, with original furnishings that bring history to life.
• Layered stories: Covers the lives of families, enslaved people, and modern-day workers.
• Filming locations: Felicity boasts appearances in major films and TV shows, adding a pop-culture element.
• Educational focus: The tour openly explores both the wealth and hardship associated with plantation history.
• Balanced experience: Combines historic house tours, outbuildings, and a working farm in one trip.

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A Complete Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at St. Joseph Plantation, built in 1830, which is remarkable for being owned by descendants of the same family since the 19th century. The tour is scheduled on the hour, with check-in happening inside either mansion, and parking is straightforward with signs posted for easy navigation. Arriving 15 minutes early is recommended to settle in and prepare for the journey.

Visiting St. Joseph: An Architectural and Historical Treasure

Walking into St. Joseph, you immediately notice the Creole architecture that sets Louisiana apart from other Southern plantations. The house is filled with original family furnishings, creating a tangible sense of life in the 1800s. The guide narrates stories of the families who lived here, highlighting both their prosperity and their struggles.

The tour emphasizes the stories of enslaved men, women, and children—a vital part of the plantation’s history often overlooked in tourist visits. Visitors will see original outbuildings, including former slave cabins, which are crucial for understanding daily life and resilience amid hardship. These structures tell stories of survival and community that are just as vital as the grand mansion.

Transition to Felicity Plantation: Beauty and Film Fame

Next, you’ll walk over to Felicity Plantation, completed between 1844 and 1847. The house features a blend of Greek Revival and Creole influences, reflecting Louisiana’s diverse cultural roots. This property remains a working sugar farm, still owned and managed by descendants via a family-run corporation, preserving the agricultural legacy.

Felicity has made a name for itself as a film and TV location, appearing in movies like 12 Years a Slave and shows like Underground. Many visitors find it exciting to step inside a location they’ve seen on screen—adding a fun, pop-culture twist to the historical experience. The house is beautifully maintained, offering a window into the elegance of antebellum Louisiana.

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What You’ll See and Learn

Throughout the tour, guides provide insight into plantation life, including the economic importance of sugarcane and the labor that sustained it. The fact that the farm is still active means visitors can see hundreds of acres of sugarcane in cultivation, connecting past and present.

The tour also covers the social dynamics of plantation owners, their families, and the workers—highlighting the hard realities of slavery alongside the grandeur of the homes. Visitors often comment on the balance of education and storytelling, appreciating the honest approach taken by guides.

Tour Duration and Group Size

At around three hours, this tour offers ample time to absorb the sights and stories without feeling rushed. Groups are usually small enough to allow for questions and personal interaction, enhancing the overall experience.

Value and Practical Tips

Pricing and Value

At $46 per person, this tour provides a lot of value for history and architecture enthusiasts. It includes guided visits to two historically significant plantations, access to original outbuildings, and the opportunity to view a still-operating sugar farm. When you consider the depth of storytelling and the authenticity of the sites, it’s a worthwhile investment, especially given the immersive experience of walking through original structures.

Accessibility and Comfort

Since the tour involves walking through historic buildings and outdoor areas, comfortable shoes are a must. The tour is designed for those able to walk moderate distances and navigate uneven surfaces like outbuildings and former slave cabins.

Flexibility and Cancellation

Booking allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for changing travel plans. You can reserve now, pay later, which is convenient if your schedule isn’t yet set.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history lovers, architecture fans, and film buffs interested in Louisiana’s plantation setting. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want an honest, layered story of the region’s past, including the harsh realities of slavery, as well as the grandeur of plantation life. If you’re seeking an educational and authentic glimpse behind the glossy tourist veneer, this tour fits the bill.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour of St. Joseph and Felicity Plantations offers a meaningful look into Louisiana’s plantation era—balancing beautiful architecture, historical storytelling, and the chance to see a working sugar farm today. It’s a valuable experience for those curious about the complex social history of the South, especially since it avoids overly romanticized portrayals.

The authenticity of the sites—with original furnishings, outbuildings, and active farming—gives you a genuine feel for what life was truly like. Plus, the film history connection at Felicity adds a fun, modern twist that broadens the appeal.

All in all, this tour is well-paced, informative, and offers a deep dive into Louisiana’s layered history, making it a standout choice for travelers looking for more than just a surface-level visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Most likely yes, but keep in mind that it involves some walking and outdoor exposure. The historical content might be more engaging for older children and teens interested in history or film.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 3 hours, including visits to both plantations and the active sugar farm.

Do you see the interiors of the houses?
Yes, the tour includes guided visits inside both historic houses, showcasing original furnishings and architecture.

Can I visit the plantations without taking the tour?
The tour package includes guided visits, so separate visits are not typically available unless arranged separately.

Is there a focus on slavery and its history?
Absolutely. The tour discusses the roles of enslaved men, women, and children, including visits to original slave cabins, emphasizing their stories.

Are the plantations open to the public outside the tour?
The sites are primarily accessible through this guided experience; their ongoing operation as farms means access outside the tour isn’t typically available.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential, and weather-appropriate clothing for outdoor walking is recommended.

Is photography allowed during the tour?
While not explicitly stated, visitors often find the sites photogenic, especially the architecture and scenic views. Just be respectful of any restrictions.

Whether you’re a history buff, film enthusiast, or architecture lover, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Louisiana’s plantation past—and present.

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